“Whilst there are gyms in the area they are all fee paying which families cannot afford. Also whilst computers are the norm for most, it is not the norm for our families; which can impact on their life skills for future work,” said Jason Smith.

The need was identified for a community gym facility and ICT hub in order to improve community spirit and bring people together. The gym was to be utilised within the curriculum planning and the ICT and science hub aimed to be accessible for the whole community, particularly for the use of ICT.

With the community having free access to ICT it would mean members of the community could gain skills and also help to alleviate some of the language barriers, improving links in the community. The whole school took part in setting up the project which is ongoing and monitored quarterly, measuring community and pupil use.

There has since been an increase in the amount of people attending evening classes which has a direct impact on their children’s learning. Barriers are said to have been lifted with the school now viewed as a hub of the community. Many people from different ethnicities have been brought together who under normal circumstances, would not have been.

The ongoing project is also hoping to be extended to include other schools and Manor Park is looking into the feasibility of adding a swimming pool to the gym area. Staff members are said to be proud that the gym has been utilised and has had a positive impact on the community as a whole.

Sponsored by Allianz Insurance

Allianz Insurance plc is proud to support the Action Against Anti-social Behaviour Project category at the Community Education Awards 2011 in association with the Policy Community Clubs of Great Britain.

“We are committed to supporting local community initiatives, especially those involving schools and young people,” said community affairs advisor Valerie Robinson.

“As a leading insurance company with offices all around the UK we feel that it is important to celebrate the efforts of those who are helping children and young people in their communities to work against anti-social behaviour.”